From Walkmans and Tamagotchis to neon windbreakers and AOL, the ’90s were an iconic, unforgettable decade. Before our small screens and social media had a monopoly on our attention, we spent a lot of time catching up on the hottest TV shows on prime time. Here are 15 of those beloved ’90s shows you probably forgot about.
The Ben Stiller Show
Before Ben Stiller was known for blockbuster hits, he had his own sketch comedy show. Though short-lived, The Ben Stiller Show gained critical acclaim for its edgy parodies and hot, up-and-coming cast. Janeane Garofalo and Bob Odenkirk are just some of the noteworthy cast members. Even though it only lasted one season, it won an Emmy.
Hey Dude
Nickelodeon was every ’90s kid’s favorite channel. Hey Dude was the first live-action show on the network. Set on a dude ranch in Arizona, the show followed the kooky hijinks of the teenage workers at the ranch. This campy, awkward coming-of-age show kicked off a legacy of beloved live-action Nickelodeon classics.
MADtv
Saturday Night Live continues to dominate sketch comedy, but in the ’90s, MADtv gave the show a run for its money. This edgier, wild sketch comedy show was a favorite for teens of the era. Characters like Ms. Swan, Stuart, and hilarious celebrity impressions made this show something special.
My So-Called Life
A young Claire Danes played Angela Chase in a drama called My So-Called Life. The show followed the angsty teen girl through real high school trials and tribulations. Viewers loved the raw, unfiltered storytelling. It paved the way for edgy teen dramas like Dawson’s Creek. This show also helped launch Jared Leto’s career.
New York Undercover
New York Undercover was a groundbreaking police drama featuring two detectives of color. The show blended gritty crime stories with hip-hop culture. It also featured amazing live performances at a fictional nightclub. The story has heart and continues to be a beloved crime drama that was ahead of its time.
Bug Juice
Disney Channel was another popular network for ’90s children and teens. Bug Juice was one of the most popular shows at the time. It captured the excitement and freedom of a summer at sleepaway camp. This reality series followed real tweens through an entire summer of friendships, crushes, and campfire drama.
The Wayans Brothers
Siblings Shawn and Marlon Wayans are a well-known ’90s duo that first worked together on In Living Color. After that sketch comedy ran its course, the pair co-starred in The Wayans Brothers. This sitcom combined slapstick humor with heartfelt family moments. And of course it gave us one of the most iconic theme songs of the decade.
Hangin’ With Mr. Cooper
Hangin’ With Mr. Cooper was a classic feel-good sitcom with a whole lot of heart. The story follows the life of Mark Cooper—played by comedian Mark Curry—as he transitions from an NBA player to a high school teacher and basketball coach. It offered lighthearted comedy and a healthy dose of important life lessons.
The Secret World of Alex Mack
Nickelodeon won over kids and teens again with the zany show The Secret World of Alex Mack. After a freak accident, Alex Mack gains telekinetic powers and the ability to turn into a liquid. This fantastical sci-fi teen drama had every ’90s kid wishing they had a secret power while still getting to live a “normal” life.
In the House
Musician-turned-actor LL Cool J’s very first starring role was in the 1995 television sitcom In the House. In the show, he plays an ex-NFL player who’s renting out part of his house to a single mom and her children. With humor, heart, and so much charm, the show has a special place in a lot of people’s hearts even though it had a short run.
Northern Exposure
Cult favorite Northern Exposure followed the story of a reluctant New York doctor sent to the fictional town of Cicely, Alaska. This classic “fish-out-of-water” tale blended magical realism, heartfelt moments, and dry humor to create a truly unique show. It still holds up well for anyone looking for a nostalgic, fun show to revisit.
Are You Afraid of the Dark?
Before Goosebumps came along to give a generation of children nightmares, there was Are You Afraid of the Dark. This spooky, pioneering show brought the horror genre to younger audiences. Every episode, a group of teens known as the Midnight Society gathered around a campfire to take turns spinning tales of ghosts, curses, and creepy clowns.
Freaks and Geeks
Freaks and Geeks launched an entire generation of actors. James Franco, Seth Rogen, Jason Segel, and Linda Cardellini all got their start on this grungy teen drama. Even though it only ran for one season, this show still maintains a cult following for its authentic depiction of the hilarious, awkward, and sometimes painful moments of high school.
Eerie, Indiana
The X-Files meets Goosebumps with Eerie, Indiana. The show follows the story of Marshall Teller, a teen who moved to the small town of Eerie, Indiana, a town that is anything but normal. While the show was technically aimed at children, the eerie plotlines and sly satirical edge made it a hit with older teens and young adults too.
M.A.N.T.I.S
M.A.N.T.I.S debuted as one of the first Black superheroes on TV. The show tells the story of a paralyzed scientist who sets out to build a powerful exoskeleton. The suit he creates not only restores his ability to walk, but it also grants him superhuman powers. Although it was short-lived, M.A.N.T.I.S was pretty groundbreaking in its own right.
Like our content? Follow us for more.
